Inform your teen of the legal consequences. In Illinois, there is a "Use It & Lose It" zero tolerance law for persons under age 21. Drivers under 21 who have illegally consumed any amount of alcohol (even a "taste") are considered to be "driving under the influence" (DUI) and are subject to penalties of driver's license suspension for a minimum of two years, possible imprisonment for up to 12 months, 100 hours of community service and a fine of up to $2,500. The penalties get much stiffer for second and third convictions. In addition, the violator can be ordered to participate in a program that includes visits to morgues or facilities that treat DUI victims.

If convicted, any DUI is punishable by up to 364 days in jail, and driving with a child under 16 is “subject to” six months imprisonment but can get up to 364 days. In addition, the fine for a DUI is up to $2,500 plus an additional $1,000 for having a child in the car. The driver may also have to do 25 hours of community service which benefit children. If convicted, their license will be revoked by the Secretary of State.

The holidays are a time of partying and celebration and not surprisingly, a time when drunk driving dramatically increases. In Illinois, those charged with a DUI offense, or “driving under the influence,” face serious penalties if proven guilty. First offenders can lose their driver’s license for up to one year, be imprisoned for up to 12 months, be required to perform 100 hours of community service, and pay a fine of up to $2,500, or any combination thereof.

Those convicted of drunk driving may lose work time, have their vehicle impounded and be required to carry high-risk auto insurance for 36 months. The penalties are more severe for second and third convictions. A fourth conviction will result in the driver’s license being permanently revoked.

If stopped by the police for a probable DUI, a driver may be given a breathalyzer test. If it is at .08 or higher, the driver’s driving privileges will be suspended for 6 months. If the driver refuses to take the test, his or her license will be automatically suspended by the Secretary of State for one year.

Parents or guardians who supply alcohol to drinkers under age 21 in their home can be found liable for both criminal and civil penalties – if the underage drinker is injured or injures someone else. However, parents usually won't be held liable if they were unaware of or had no reason to know that underage drinkers consumed alcohol in their home. Penalties can be severe and include prison time and a fine.

In Illinois, a Driving Under the Influence (DUI) charge can lead to serious penalties including large fines, driver’s license suspension, and jail or prison time. The penalties may increase if a drunk driver causes an accident or injures someone. DUI charges are brought against any driver who is under the influence of alcohol and tests at .08 percent BAC (blood-alcohol content) or higher. Stricter penalties apply for drivers with a BAC of .16 percent or more. Drivers under the age of 21 may not have any blood-alcohol content upon being tested.